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Math Teacher's 20-Year Kayak Commute to School
24 Sep
Summary
- A teacher commutes to work via kayak across Oyster Harbour.
- His journey takes approximately 30 minutes, influenced by weather.
- He has encountered diverse marine wildlife during his commute.
Gary Fullarton has maintained a distinctive 20-year commute to Great Southern Grammar in Albany, Western Australia, by kayaking across Oyster Harbour. This approximately 30-minute journey, which can extend to 40 minutes in rougher conditions, is facilitated by the school's waterfront campus.
Fullarton, who teaches mathematics, initiated this paddle as a more direct route than driving around the harbour. He carries his belongings in a dry bag and uses a trolley to transport his kayak. Upon reaching the opposite shore, he walks the remainder of the way to the school.
Weather conditions, particularly lightning, can affect his commute. Calm mornings offer a serene experience, often accompanied by mist. Fullarton finds the paddle therapeutic and a form of exercise, which prepares him for his teaching responsibilities.
During his journeys, he has observed diverse marine life, including dolphins, seals, and stingrays. The school, established in 1999 and relocated to its current Lower Kalgan site in 2000, emphasizes its connection to the natural environment on Menang Noongar boodja.
Fullarton also notes the environmental benefits and savings on fuel costs associated with his kayak commute. As of March 2022, his unique travel method had been a consistent part of his routine for about two decades.
